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Beloved Cheers star passes away

<p>The world of television has lost a beloved figure. George Wendt, best known as the affable barfly Norm Peterson on the iconic sitcom <em>Cheers</em>, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed that the actor and comedian died peacefully in his sleep.</p> <p>"George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him," a representative for the Wendt family said in a heartfelt statement. "He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time."</p> <p>Wendt’s passing marks the end of an era. For over a decade, he brought warmth, humour and quiet depth to the character of Norm – a man who was more than just a fixture at the bar. His role earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations, a testament to the quiet brilliance of his performance.</p> <p>He began his career in comedy during the 1970s, cutting his teeth in the world of sketch and improv before making his mark on television. Cheers, which ran for 11 seasons, became his home – and he became part of America’s family. Wendt’s Norm was always there, beer in hand, ready with a witty remark or a knowing glance that said more than words ever could.</p> <p>But behind the scenes, Wendt once admitted the job wasn’t always as easy as he made it look. He joked that the hardest part of playing Norm was pretending to enjoy the flat, salty, non-alcoholic drinks he had to consume all day during filming. “It not only tastes disgusting, I was afraid of keeling over from high blood pressure,” he once told <em>The Washington Post</em>. Yet, like the seasoned actor he was, he mastered the craft – not by drinking, but by knowing exactly when the camera was watching. "That's how I make my money. That’s acting."</p> <p>After <em>Cheers</em> ended in 1993, Wendt attempted to forge a new path with <em>The George Wendt Show</em>. Unfortunately, the show struggled to find its audience and was cancelled after just six episodes aired. Still, his passion for comedy never wavered. He made memorable appearances on <em>Saturday Night Live</em> in the 1990s and took on roles in films like <em>The Little Rascals</em>, <em>Airplane II: The Sequel</em>, and <em>Santa Buddies</em>.</p> <p>Off-screen, Wendt found joy and stability in his family life. He married actress Bernadette Birkett in 1978 – who, in a sweet twist of art imitating life, voiced Norm’s elusive wife Vera on <em>Cheers</em>. Together they raised five children: Hilary, Joe, Daniel, Joshua and Andrew.</p> <p>Wendt came from a large, close-knit family, with six sisters and a nephew who would go on to become a comedic star in his own right – <em>Ted Lasso</em> actor Jason Sudeikis.</p> <p><em>Images: CBS</em></p>

Caring

Aussie couple set to give away $3.5 billion

<p>Billionaire Canva co-founder Cameron Adams and his wife Lisa Miller have pledged to give away at least half of their estimated $7 billion fortune, calling on Australia’s wealthiest to follow suit in the fight against environmental degradation.</p> <p>The philanthropic commitment will see the couple funnel significant resources into green initiatives via The Giving Pledge and Founders Pledge – two global efforts that encourage billionaires and entrepreneurs to donate a substantial portion of their wealth to impactful causes.</p> <p>“Nature nourishes us, sustains us, inspires us and shapes how we live,” Mr Adams wrote in his letter to The Giving Pledge, the global charity initiative co-founded by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. “But today, many of the ecosystems that support our lives are being destroyed – and our future depends on how we choose to save them.”</p> <p>Adams, who co-founded the homegrown tech success Canva in 2013, and Miller, a former zoologist turned entrepreneur, say their focus will be on reversing biodiversity loss and restoring natural ecosystems, which they see as critical to the survival of life on Earth.</p> <p>“Philanthropy is more than charity; it is a means of addressing systemic issues, driving meaningful change and ensuring that future generations inherit a world rich in possibility and biodiversity,” Mr Adams said.</p> <p>The couple’s wealth is largely tied up in Canva equity, with the company currently valued at around AU$49.5 billion (US$32 billion) and reportedly considering a NASDAQ listing in 2026. Canva’s other co-founders, Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, joined The Giving Pledge in 2021.</p> <p>The new pledge by Adams and Miller follows earlier environmental commitments by the couple, including the establishment of Wedgetail Ventures, an eco-investment fund backing conservation projects and local communities. They also own a 5000-hectare property in Tasmania, now being developed into a conservation research centre in partnership with the University of Tasmania.</p> <p>“In recent years, we have grown in our confidence that these are issues worth fighting for, and that we can make a unique contribution with the funds and skills that we have,” Mr Adams said.</p> <p>Lisa Miller echoed the sentiment in joint statements, underscoring the importance of bold, scalable efforts in the environmental space. “We must not only halt nature’s decline but also begin its restoration,” she said.</p> <p>Through Founders Pledge, the couple joins a growing network of tech entrepreneurs including Spotify’s Magnus Hult, Culture Amp’s Jon Williams, and Klarna’s Niklas Adalberth. The organisation has attracted over 2,000 members across 45 countries, with more than US$1.5 billion (AU$2.3 billion) already donated from pledged funds.</p> <p>“Entrepreneurs are uniquely placed to transform the world,” Founders Pledge states. “We advise on, facilitate and maximise the impact of our members’ giving.”</p> <p>The Adams-Miller announcement adds to a growing number of high-profile philanthropic moves by Australian billionaires. Mining magnate Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest and his former wife Nicola were among the first Australians to sign on to The Giving Pledge back in 2013.</p> <p>“As a family, we agreed many years ago to give away the majority of our wealth,” the Forrests said at the time. “We felt that if our children were to inherit considerable wealth, it would only get in the way of them striving for and achieving their best.”</p> <p>Adams hopes his and Miller’s decision will spark a wider cultural shift among Australia’s wealthiest. “We hope others will recognise the power of philanthropy to create lasting environmental and societal impact by joining us in this commitment,” he said.</p> <p><em>Image: Wedgetail</em></p>

Money & Banking

AFL legend passes away after cancer battle

<p>The Australian football community is in mourning following the death of one of its most revered figures, Robert Walls, who passed away peacefully on Thursday morning at the age of 74.</p> <p>Walls died at his East Melbourne home, surrounded by his children Rebecca, Daniel and David, and partner Julie, after choosing to end his life through voluntary assisted dying. His decision followed a two-year battle with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a rare form of cancer he was diagnosed with in 2023.</p> <p>A towering presence in the game both on and off the field, Walls was a Carlton legend, Australian Football Hall of Famer, and beloved figure whose impact stretched across generations of players, fans and fellow commentators.</p> <p>Having endured over 250 nights in hospital during his fight, Walls made the difficult decision to forgo further rounds of chemotherapy in favour of spending his final weeks with loved ones. His family confirmed he spent his last days in peace, tidying up affairs and reconnecting with those closest to him.</p> <p>“Having battled cancer for more than two years, Robert did it his way,” read a statement from the AFL on behalf of the Walls family. “His massive contribution to football at Carlton, Fitzroy, Brisbane and Richmond will be celebrated at the MCG in coming weeks.”</p> <p>Walls’ experience with illness was shaped not only by his own diagnosis but by the heartbreak of losing his wife, Erin, to lung cancer just months after she had gone into remission. The grief and perspective from that loss influenced how he chose to approach his own battle.</p> <p>“(The diagnosis) was a shock. I guess I thought ‘my turn’,” Walls said in an interview with 7NEWS last year.</p> <p>Robert Walls’ football journey began as a 16-year-old prodigy debuting for Carlton in 1967. Over the next two decades, he would play more than 200 games and win three premierships with the Blues during a golden era. He later coached the club to premiership glory in 1987 – one of his most cherished achievements.</p> <p>Walls also took the reins at Fitzroy, the Brisbane Bears, and Richmond, earning respect for his ability to rebuild struggling sides and mentor young players. At Brisbane, his groundwork helped lay the foundation for the Lions' historic premiership three-peat from 2001 to 2003. Among those he coached were future champions Michael Voss, Jason Akermanis and current AFL coaches Chris Scott and Craig McRae.</p> <p>After retiring from coaching, Walls remained a steadfast presence in the game through a distinguished media career. A former schoolteacher, he brought insight and sharp analysis to Channel 7’s Talking Footy and penned a widely read column for <em>The Age</em>.</p> <p>In 2011, he was elevated to Legend status at Carlton – an honour that spoke volumes about his legacy at the club. He was also recognised by the Brisbane Lions for his contributions to both Fitzroy and the Bears.</p> <p>Even after stepping away from the spotlight, Walls remained devoted to the game. In 2019, he volunteered as a mentor to Carlton coach Brendon Bolton and his staff, offering guidance and support behind the scenes.</p> <p>Walls’ passing comes just days after the football world farewelled another Carlton favourite, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/carlton-mourns-the-loss-of-one-of-the-greats-of-the-game" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peter Bosustow, who died aged 67 following his own cancer battle</a>.</p> <p>As the AFL community reflects on the life of Robert Walls, tributes continue to pour in for a man whose life was inseparable from the game he loved.</p> <p>He is survived by his three children and seven grandchildren. A public celebration of his life and football legacy will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the coming weeks.</p> <p><em>Images: Reddit</em></p>

Caring

Oscar-winning filmmaker passes away at 92

<p>Hollywood has lost one of its most beloved and quietly brilliant storytellers. Robert Benton, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind <em>Kramer vs. Kramer</em> and <em>Places in the Heart</em>, has died at the age of 92. His longtime assistant, Marisa Forzano, confirmed the news to the<em> New York Times</em>, marking the end of an era in American cinema.</p> <p>Benton's career was never about loud proclamations or showy success. Instead, it was built on deeply human stories, told with warmth, honesty, and quiet grace. His path to filmmaking was anything but traditional. Fired from his job as an art director at <em>Esquire</em> magazine in the early 1960s, Benton – who struggled with dyslexia – decided to try his hand at screenwriting.</p> <p>“I decided to write a screenplay,” he once said in an interview. “I am dyslexic. I cannot spell or punctuate. I knew a young editor at <em>Esquire</em>, a wonderful writer, David Newman. I sold him on the glamorous life of the Hollywood screenwriter.”</p> <p>That leap of faith became a defining moment – not just for Benton, but for cinema. With Newman, he co-wrote <em>Bonnie and Clyde</em> (1967), a film that changed the landscape of American filmmaking. The biographical crime drama, starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, was a bold, stylish and violent film for its time, earning the pair an Academy Award nomination and raking in $70 million from a modest $2.5 million budget.</p> <p>The duo would collaborate again on <em>What’s Up, Doc?</em> (1972), a screwball comedy that became the third-highest-grossing film of its year, proving Benton's versatility and deep love for the history of cinema.</p> <p>By 1977, Benton stepped into the spotlight with <em>The Late Show</em>, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. A year later, he co-wrote <em>Superman</em> with Newman – yet another blockbuster hit. But it was in 1979 that Benton delivered what many consider his masterpiece: <em>Kramer vs. Kramer</em>. The emotional legal drama about a custody battle, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep, struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, winning Benton two Academy Awards for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.</p> <p>In 1984, he returned to the Oscars stage once more for <em>Places in the Heart</em>, a quietly powerful story that earned him his third Academy Award, this time for Best Original Screenplay.</p> <p>Though he never sought fame, Benton left his mark on generations of filmmakers and viewers. He had a gift for coaxing raw, honest performances from actors – from Hoffman and Streep to Nicole Kidman in<em> Billy Bathgate</em> (1991), and Anthony Hopkins in <em>The Human Stain</em> (2003). His last film, <em>Feast of Love</em> (2007), starred Morgan Freeman and Selma Blair, capping off a career that was always deeply human, emotionally rich, and never anything less than sincere.</p> <p>In his final years, Benton was quietly working on his memoir. It will remain unfinished – a bittersweet reminder of a storyteller who still had more to say. He is survived by his son, John.</p> <p><em>Image: United Films / IMDB</em></p>

Caring

Car thief found guilty after running over young "hero" cop

<p>A man high on methamphetamine who killed a young police officer during a chaotic pursuit in Perth has been found guilty of manslaughter, bringing a painful but long-awaited moment of justice for a grieving family and police force.</p> <p>Reagan Ainslie Chown, 25, was convicted in the Supreme Court on Tuesday for the death of Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was fatally injured on June 8, 2023, after being dragged under a stolen vehicle in the Perth suburb of Ascot.</p> <p>Constable Woods – described by colleagues and loved ones as a rising star and a true hero – had only just completed his probationary training when he was killed in the line of duty.</p> <p>The courtroom was heavy with emotion as the jury returned its guilty verdict after less than three hours of deliberation. Woods’ family members sobbed openly, clinging to each other as the decision was read.</p> <p>“We’re just overwhelmed. We’re absolutely so happy with the verdict,” said his mother, Natalie Woods, fighting through tears outside the courthouse. “It’s been a huge year-and-a-half and I just want to thank all the police and detectives and everyone that’s been there for us. Now we can let him rest and start just living his memory the best way we can.”</p> <p>Chown had tried to shift the blame, claiming Constable Woods had “put himself in a dangerous position” and that he had lost control of his body during the incident. But police leaders and prosecutors strongly rejected the defence.</p> <p>“Anthony was a hero to all of us,” said WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch. “I reject any notion that Anthony should not have done what he did. He did his job. He never got to go home from his shift that night.”</p> <p>Blanch called the suggestion that Constable Woods was at fault “offensive and disgusting”, adding that the entire police force – often referred to as the "blue family" – had been mourning deeply since the tragedy. “But today is a small piece of justice,” he said.</p> <p>The court heard that Chown and two accomplices were fleeing police in a stolen Holden Cruz when they entered a cul-de-sac. As Constable Woods opened the driver's side door and attempted to arrest Chown, the officer deployed his Taser. In the chaos that followed, Woods fell and was dragged under the vehicle. He died days later from cardiac arrest caused by mechanical compression injuries.</p> <p>Prosecutor Justin Whalley said Chown had meth in his system at the time and was still in possession of the drug. Chown had earlier admitted to stealing the car and reckless driving, but pleaded not guilty to manslaughter.</p> <p>Constable Woods was laid to rest in a funeral attended by more than 2,000 mourners at Optus Stadium, including officers from around the country. The service was a solemn tribute to a man whose bravery and dedication touched the lives of many.</p> <p>“We will never stop missing him,” Constable Woods' mother said. “But today, we found a little bit of peace.”</p> <p>Chown is due to be sentenced on July 3. </p>

Legal

Bill Gates set to give away his entire fortune

<p>In a bold, legacy-defining move, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation had announced plans to spend more than $200 billion over the next two decades, dramatically accelerating its mission to combat global poverty and disease before closing its doors in 2045.</p> <p>The philanthropic giant, co-founded by Bill Gates in 2000, will double its giving in the years ahead – an effort Gates says is driven by a sense of "urgency and opportunity". With advances in artificial intelligence and public health breakthroughs on the horizon, and as government aid budgets decline worldwide, the foundation is aiming to make its final chapter the most impactful yet.</p> <p>"People will say a lot of things about me when I die, but I am determined that ‘he died rich’ will not be one of them," Gates, 69, wrote in a personal blog post on Thursday. “There are too many urgent problems to solve for me to hold onto resources that could be used to help people.”</p> <p>The decision marks a pivotal shift from the foundation’s original charter, which called for operations to end 20 years after Gates’s death. Instead, the organisation will sunset in 2045, regardless of Gates’s lifespan.</p> <p>The scale of the commitment is staggering: over the next 20 years, the Gates Foundation will give away more than twice what it distributed in its first 25 years. “During the first 25 years of the Gates Foundation – powered in part by the generosity of Warren Buffett – we gave away more than $100 billion,” Gates noted. </p> <p>Founded at the dawn of the 21st century, the Gates Foundation has become one of the most influential forces in global health. From spearheading polio eradication efforts to funding a life-saving rotavirus vaccine that has reduced child deaths from diarrhoea by 75%, its impact is undeniable.</p> <p>Now, the foundation’s final act aims even higher. “By accelerating our giving, my hope is we can put the world on a path to ending preventable deaths of mums and babies and lifting millions of people out of poverty,” Gates wrote.</p> <p>The announcement also comes at a moment of transition. In 2024, Melinda French Gates departed from the foundation, three years after the couple's divorce. Yet the shared vision remains clear: a world where fewer lives are lost to poverty, illness and neglect.</p> <p>As Gates prepares to give away nearly all of his $112.6 billion fortune, his message to the world is simple – and powerful: we don’t have forever to make a difference. So we must act now.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Money & Banking

Jackie O blown away by breathtaking Archibald portrait

<p>Radio icon Jackie 'O' Henderson has received a dazzling honour that places her in the pantheon of celebrated Australian figures: a stunningly lifelike portrait of the KIIS FM star has been named a finalist in the prestigious 2025 Archibald Prize.</p> <p>Painted by the immensely gifted artist <a href="https://kellymareeartist.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kelly Maree</a>, the portrait captures Henderson, 50, in a dreamlike pose, adorned in a delicate blue tulle gown rich with embellishments. The piece has already been hailed as a masterstroke of emotional depth and technical brilliance.</p> <p>Upon learning of the news, Henderson expressed her profound gratitude, calling the experience "one of the great highlights of my life." Sharing the artwork on social media, she wrote, "To say I’m honoured doesn’t even come close… I’m still in awe."</p> <p>In a heartfelt message, Henderson recalled how the collaboration came to be. She was in New York when Maree reached out – an encounter she described as “serendipitous”. The artist, who painted actor Josh Heuston for last year’s competition, felt an immediate artistic connection with the broadcasting star. “Turns out we were drawn to each other,” Henderson said.</p> <p>Maree, equally moved by the recognition, shared her creative vision behind the piece. “I wanted the portrait to feel whimsical, as if she were outside beneath the moonlight,” she explained. “I positioned her leaning forward and looking towards the viewer as if caught in a moment of thought.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJGTXwDvAIO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJGTXwDvAIO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jackie O (@jackieo_official)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The portrait’s lifelike rendering and poetic composition have quickly earned praise from art lovers and critics alike, with many tipping it as a strong contender for this year’s top prize.</p> <p>The Archibald Prize, Australia’s most esteemed portraiture award, carries a $100,000 prize and will announce its winner on May 9. Whether or not Maree’s portrait takes the top honour, it has already achieved something deeply meaningful – immortalising Jackie 'O' in a work of art as iconic as her career.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Art

Australia's Next Top Model star passes away at just 27

<p>The fashion world is mourning the loss of Australian model Lucy Markovic, who has tragically passed away at the age of 27 following complications from a brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM).</p> <p>The heartbreaking news was shared via a post on Markovic’s Instagram Story, believed to have been written by her partner.</p> <p>"Dear friends and family, I regret to inform you that Lucy has passed," the message read. "She was at peace. Me, her mother and my mother were present with her. We ask you to please give us space in these hard times. May Lucy rest in peace."</p> <p>Markovic, a former contestant and runner-up on season nine of <em>Australia's Next Top Model</em>, had kept her followers updated on her health journey. Just weeks ago, she had revealed to her 90,000 followers that she was preparing to undergo brain surgery to remove a golf ball-sized AVM. "Excited, thankful, scared, supported, hopeful," she wrote at the time. "Full flood of emotions in this time. Life's a journey and I'm ready for the next chapter."</p> <p>Her modelling agency, Elite Model Management NYC, paid tribute to her spirit and talent in a statement. "We are heartbroken to share that Lucy Markovic has passed away after a brave battle with a brain AVM," the agency wrote on Instagram. "Lucy was a bright shining light, and had an incredible dry sense of humor. Her smile and laughter could light up a room and draw you closer to her. She loved to dance, she really shined."</p> <p>"Modeling was one of Lucy's dreams and we are deeply honoured to have been part of that journey with her," the statement continued. "She brought elegance, strength and beauty to her work. But more than that, she brought herself – her warmth, her laughter, her light."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIRsInvveRP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIRsInvveRP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Elite Model Management NYC (@elitenyc)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry. Renowned Italian designer Donatella Versace, for whom Markovic modelled last year, also expressed her sorrow. "I am so sorry to hear the news about Lucy Markovic. Rest in peace, beautiful girl," Versace wrote on her Instagram story.</p> <p>Markovic’s rise in the fashion world was meteoric. After gaining national attention on Australia’s Next Top Model, she went on to walk the runway for global fashion houses such as Versace, Givenchy, and Dion Lee, carving out an impressive international career.</p> <p>In the hours leading up to the announcement of her passing, a heartbreaking post appeared on her social media, sharing that she was "currently battling for her life" and asking for prayers. Six hours later, her loved ones confirmed the devastating news.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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"The heartbeat of Blondie": Legendary rocker passes away

<p>Clem Burke, the powerhouse drummer who kept the beat for Blondie across decades of chart-topping success, has died at the age of 70 following a private battle with cancer.</p> <p>The heartbreaking news was announced by Blondie’s founding members, singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein, in a solemn statement shared to the band’s official Instagram page on Monday.</p> <p>“It is with profound sadness that we relay news of the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Clem Burke following a private battle with cancer,” they wrote. “Clem was not just a drummer. He was the heartbeat of Blondie.”</p> <p>Known for his unmatched energy and passion, Burke’s talent propelled Blondie through their meteoric rise from the New York City rock scene of the 1970s to international acclaim. Harry and Stein praised him as a force both on and off stage, calling him “a source of inspiration” and remembering his “vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and rock solid work ethic”.</p> <p>Burke’s thunderous drumming powered Blondie’s biggest hits, including “Call Me” and “One Way Or Another”. Though the band originally disbanded in 1982, they reunited in 1997, with Burke once again behind the kit. His final album with the band was Pollinator, released in 2017.</p> <p>Beyond Blondie, Burke’s legendary career saw him perform alongside music greats such as David Bowie, Bob Dylan, the Ramones – with whom he briefly played drums in 1987 – as well as Eurythmics, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett and countless others. As the band wrote, Burke was a self-proclaimed “Rock & Roll survivalist”, whose versatility and dedication made him a beloved collaborator in every circle he entered.</p> <p>Burke is survived by his wife of over 20 years, Ellen Burke. The couple, who married in 2003, did not have children. The type of cancer Burke battled was not disclosed in the band’s announcement.</p> <p>Harry and Stein concluded their tribute with a message of gratitude and mourning: “His influence and contributions have spanned decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on every project he was a part of. We extend our deepest condolences to Clem’s family, friends, and fans around the world. His legacy will live on through the tremendous amount of music he created and the countless lives he touched.”</p> <p>“As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr Burke.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Hilarious gift for Home and Away icon after her final scene

<p>After an incredible 33-year run on <em>Home and Away</em>, beloved actress Lynne McGranger has filmed her final scene, marking the end of an era for both the show and its devoted fans. Portraying the iconic Irene Roberts, McGranger’s departure is a moment of celebration and nostalgia for the Australian TV industry.</p> <p>McGranger wrapped up her last scene on the legendary Pier Diner set at Seven’s Eveleigh Studios in Sydney on Wednesday. The emotional moment was met with cheers and heartfelt applause as the cast and crew gathered to witness the final take for the longest-serving female cast member in the show’s history.</p> <p>Producer Lucy Addario led the tributes, presenting McGranger with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the <em>Home and Away</em> production team. Adding a touch of humour and nostalgia, she was also gifted the famous “Hamburger Phone” – a prop synonymous with the Diner – as a token of appreciation for her unforgettable contribution to the show.</p> <p>Grateful and emotional, McGranger reflected on her incredible journey. “I’ve had the ride of my life. And I love each and every one of you so much: The cast – Ray, Georgie, Emily, Shane, Ada, James, all the youngins,” she said. “The art department, the writers, everybody – there’s so many unsung heroes. This show is made up of so many parts. You’re all amazing, and it’s been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you. I’m touched, I’m humbled, and I’m so honoured. Thank you so much.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHp-tuUCy-h/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHp-tuUCy-h/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by 7NEWS Sydney (@7newssyd)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Though McGranger’s time on set has concluded, her character’s exit storyline promises to keep viewers captivated for months to come. Since her debut in January 1993, Irene has been a cornerstone of Summer Bay, known for her toughness, sharp wit and heart of gold. A recovered alcoholic who turned her life around, Irene’s journey has seen her take in numerous foster children and face some of the show’s most dramatic storylines, from battling breast cancer to surviving bomb explosions and plane crashes.</p> <p>Throughout the years, Irene’s signature catchphrases – “girly”, “darl”, and “flippin’ heck!” – have cemented her place in Australian pop culture. In 2023, <em>TV WEEK</em> even ranked her the second Greatest Australian TV Character Of All Time, a testament to McGranger’s unforgettable performance <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">(Alf was No.1, in case you're wondering)</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">.</span></p> <p>Even as fans prepare to say goodbye to Irene Roberts over the coming months, McGranger’s legacy will live on in the hearts of <em>Home and Away</em> viewers. Her unmistakable charm has left an indelible mark on the show, and she will always be remembered as a true Summer Bay icon.</p> <p><em>Images: Network 7</em></p>

Grief as European royal passes away at just 46

<p>Archduchess Estelle de Saint-Romain of Austria has passed away at the age of 46. A statement published in Le Figaro's Carnet du Jour confirmed that Estelle Lapra de Saint-Romain, wife of Archduke Carl Christian of Austria, died on March 4, 2025. Her family laid her to rest at the Monastère de Cimiez in Nice, France, a week later.</p> <p>"Her husband, Archduke Carl Christian, their children, her parents, and her in-laws are deeply saddened to announce that Archduchess Estelle of Austria, née Lapra de Saint Romain, was called to God on Tuesday, March 4, 2025," the statement read in translation. The cause of death was not disclosed, though reports indicate she had previously been diagnosed with cancer.</p> <p>Born in 1979, Estelle married Carl Christian in 2007. He is the great-grandson of Emperor Charles I of Austria, the last ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Together, they had five children: Zita, 17, Anezka, 15, Anna, 12, Paola, 10, and Pier-Georgia, 4.</p> <p>The funeral service, attended by several European royals, took place at the historic Monastère de Cimiez. Among those in attendance were Belgium's Princess Astrid, Luxembourg's Princess Marie-Astrid, the Duke of Castro, and Ferdinand of Habsburg. Brother Antonio Basso led the ceremony, remembering Estelle for her "loving wisdom" and recalling how she and her family regularly attended Mass at the monastery.</p> <p>Despite the dissolution of the Austrian monarchy in 1918, the Habsburg family remains prominent in European society. Estelle and Carl Christian’s wedding in 2007 attracted significant attention, with crowds gathering to witness the event. Three hundred distinguished guests attended, including Princess Astrid, Liechtenstein’s Prince Gundakar, and Jean-Christophe, Prince Napoléon.</p> <p>Carl Christian, the eldest son of Archduke Rodolphe de Habsbourg-Lorraine and Archduchess Marie-Hélène, née Baroness de Villenfagne de Vogelsanck, is part of an extensive noble lineage. His cousin, Archduke Karl von Habsburg, is the current head of the Austrian Imperial House.</p> <p>Archduchess Estelle’s passing marks a great loss for the Habsburg family and the European aristocracy, as she is remembered for her grace, devotion, and dedication to her family and faith.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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Tributes flow after Aussie tennis icon passes away

<p>Fred Stolle has died at the age of 86.</p> <p>The tennis icon, with the nickname “Fiery”, began his career in the tennis world as a ball boy at the Davis Cup between Italy and the United States in 1951.</p> <p>He progressed through the ranks and made his breakthrough in 1965 at the French Open. </p> <p>The following year, he played at the US Open and achieved some of his best results in doubles, claiming 10 major doubles titles and another seven mixed doubles crowns.</p> <p>He was also a member of the Australian Davis Cup team, helping the nation claim three straight Davis Cup titles from 1964-66. </p> <p>Following his career on the court, Stolle made his debut in the commentary booth alongside John Newcombe and Tony Trabert, and became known to tennis fans for his insight and humour. </p> <p>Tributes have poured in from giants of the tennis world, with former teammate and friend Rod Laver leading tributes with an emotional post on X. </p> <p>“As I wrote in my book on the Golden Era of Aussie tennis, Fred Stolle was too nice a guy to hold a grudge,” he wrote.</p> <p>“He won many grand slams and was in the finals of many more.</p> <p>“It took the best to beat the best. We never tired of reliving the past as we travelled the world looking into the future with an enduring love of the sport. You will be missed, Fiery, RIP.”</p> <p>Paul McNamee, a former doubles world No. 1, also paid tribute to Stolle on X, writing: “Fiery Fred Stolle is no longer with us. What a player, what a commentator, what a bloke." </p> <p>“One of that great group of Aussie tennis players who made history, and whose legacy is perhaps unrivalled.</p> <p>“Thank you Fred for your wit, your friendship and for just being you. We’ll miss you.”</p> <p>Liz Smylie, who won the 1985 Wimbledon doubles title, wrote: “Very sad news to hear of the passing of Fred Stolle.</p> <p>“A champion player and person whose knowledge, generosity and expertise in the booth was legendary. He’ll be missed by all of us who knew and loved him.”</p> <p>Craig Tiley, chief executive of Tennis Australia and director of the Australian Open, shared: “When we speak about Australia’s golden era and the progression from amateur to professional, Stolle’s name is right up there with the best. RIP Fiery.”</p> <p>Stolle is survived by wife Pat, his son Sandon, and daughters Monique and Nadine.</p> <p><em>Image: X </em></p>

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Baywatch actress passes away aged 61

<p>Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff has passed away at the age of 61. </p> <p>The <em>Baywatch</em> actress and ex-wife of David Hasselhoff was found dead in her Los Angeles home on Wednesday, according to multiple media outlets in the US. </p> <p>Law enforcement sources have told TMZ that her family members were concerned after not hearing from her and wanted to check up on her. </p> <p>First responders were then called to her home after receiving a report of an unconscious female, and she was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene, according to <em>Page Six</em>. </p> <p>She has reportedly died by suicide. </p> <p>"Our family is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Pamela Hasselhoff," a representative for David Hasselhoff said in a statement.</p> <p>"We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time, but we kindly request privacy as we grieve and navigate through this challenging time."</p> <p>Bach was married to Hasselhoff for 17 years from 1989 to 2006, with the former couple sharing two children: daughters Taylor Ann Hasselhoff, 34, and Hayley Hasselhoff, 32.</p> <p>She was also a grandmother to Taylor's daughter, born in August 2024. </p> <p>Pamela was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1963 and moved to Los Angeles in 1985. </p> <p>That same year, she met David on the set of <em>Knight Rider</em>, with the couple tying the knot four years later. </p> <p>Six years later, she joined the cast of <em>Baywatch</em>, where she played reporter and businesswoman Kate 'Kaye' Morgan periodically in a few episodes across seasons two, three, five and six.</p> <p>Pamela and David filed for divorce in January 2006, citing irreconcilable differences.</p> <p><em>Image: MediaPunch/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. </em></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au</em></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636</em></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">SANE: 1800 187 263; saneforums.org</em></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> </p>

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"A miracle": Man walks away from horror crash

<p>A man has walked away with only minor injuries after surviving a horrific crash in Sydney's north. </p> <p>The horrific scene unfolded when the man's car was crushed after he collided with a truck on the Spit Bridge in Manly on Monday morning. </p> <p>The man in his 40s was cut out of the wreckage by firefighters, with NSW Ambulance confirming that he was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital after sustaining minor injuries to his back and neck.</p> <p>Many people were stunned after seeing images of the mangled vehicle, wondering how the driver managed to walk away relatively unscathed. </p> <p>“How good are those first responders to get him out alive. Bloody heroes every single one of them,” one person said, while another added, “That is a miracle.”</p> <p>“So glad he is OK! He should buy a lotto ticket, thank you to the amazing first responses you do an amazing job,” another said.</p> <p>Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Andrew Dewberry told <a href="https://manlyobserver.com.au/spit-bridge-closed-after-car-crushed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Manly Observer</em></a> that the car was "completely crushed and mangled" and it was a "miracle" he survived. </p> <p>Two of three outbound lanes were closed on the bridge for about an hour as emergency crews worked to free the person from the vehicle and clear the scene.</p> <p>Many commuters were stuck in the heavy traffic delays, with dozens of people fleeing standstill buses and trekking along the highway to escape the chaos. </p> <p><em>Image credits: The Manly Observer </em></p> <p><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span></p>

Caring

Home and Away icon bids farewell after 33 years

<p>In news that has sent shockwaves through lounge rooms across the country, Lynne McGranger, the heart and soul of <em>Home and Away</em>, is preparing to hang up her iconic apron and bid farewell to her beloved character, Irene Roberts.</p> <p>After an impressive 33 years of delivering heartfelt performances, dishing out sage advice and reminding every misbehaving local to "listen here, girlie", McGranger will be making her emotional exit later this year.</p> <p>Seven has promised fans that Irene’s departure will be one for the history books – no, not via the usual dramatic Summer Bay methods of freak storms, runaway cars or inexplicable amnesia, but an “emotional exit” that “cannot be missed”.</p> <p>While details are tightly under wraps, we can only speculate: Will Irene sail off into the sunset? Open a surf club for wayward teens? Or finally take that well-earned break from all the Summer Bay chaos and settle somewhere where people aren’t constantly getting lost at sea?</p> <p>Fans, naturally, have been left reeling. Social media has been flooded with messages of heartbreak, nostalgia and a desperate plea for Irene to return – even if only for a guest appearance or as a ghostly vision (a <em>Home and Away</em> classic).</p> <p>Lynne herself has spoken out about the farewell, calling it “bittersweet” to leave a role that has been not just a job, but a family. "After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day with people I love, respect and whom I now consider family, it’s bittersweet to be closing the chapter on what has been the best and longest gig of my life,” she said.</p> <p>Ever the class act, Lynne expressed gratitude to the crew, writers and, of course, the fans – those who have stuck by Irene through every high, low and dramatic face-off at the Diner.</p> <p>And let’s not forget Irene’s legendary status. <em>TV Week</em> readers ranked her as the second Greatest Australian TV Character of All Time (although we suspect if the voting had been left solely to <em>Home and Away</em> die-hards, she’d have taken the crown).</p> <p>Julie McGauran, <em>Home and Away</em>’s Executive Producer, summed it up best: “Lynne’s extraordinary portrayal of down-to-earth Irene Roberts is why the character is held with such great affection by fans around the world.”</p> <p>Despite wrapping up filming in March, Irene will still grace our screens for months to come – enough time for fans to prepare themselves emotionally (and stock up on tissues). In the meantime, Lynne will return to the stage with her comedy show, "The Grandparents Club", proving that she has no plans to slow down anytime soon.</p> <p>The farewell will undoubtedly be a tearjerker, but if we know anything about Irene Roberts, she’ll be leaving Summer Bay the same way she lived in it: with heart, humour and a no-nonsense attitude.</p> <p>As one fan put it perfectly, "Now listen here, girlie, you are going to be missed soooo much."</p> <p>And that, as they say, is the bottom line.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Home and Away co-stars announce the birth of their baby

<p>Former<em> Home and Away</em> stars Luke Mitchell and Rebecca Breeds have announced the birth of their first child. </p> <p>The Aussie actors shared the news that Breeds, 37, had given birth in a joint Instagram post including some gorgeous images of their newborn. </p> <p>Revealing they welcomed a boy, they wrote: "Welcome to the world little man. Thanks for choosing us. We love you beyond words 🙏❤️✨."</p> <p>Fans, friends and former <em>Home and Away</em> alumni raced to the comments to congratulate the family. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGTat_vxsSJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGTat_vxsSJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Luke Mitchell (@lukemitchell17)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><em>Home and Away</em> star Georgie Parker commented: "Oh Luke, huge congratulations to you and Bec. Now the fun begins. Sending love."</p> <p>The pair kept their baby's face concealed, but shared images of his feet, tiny hands and hair, and chose not to announce the baby boy's name.</p> <p>Breeds announced her pregnancy in November, posing on the red carpet and cradling her baby bump for photos. </p> <p>The couple met on set of iconic soap <em>Home and Away</em> and fell head over heels and have now been together for 15 years, tying the knot back in 2013.</p> <p>Image credits: Instagram </p>

Family & Pets

What is callisthenics? And how does it compare to running or lifting weights?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mandy-hagstrom-1180806">Mandy Hagstrom</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-keogh-129041">Justin Keogh</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863"><em>Bond University</em></a></em></p> <p>Callisthenics is a type of training where you do bodyweight exercises to build strength. It’s versatile, low cost, and easy to start.</p> <p>Classic callisthenics moves include:</p> <ul> <li>push ups</li> <li>bodyweight squats</li> <li>chin ups</li> <li>burpees</li> <li>lunges using only your bodyweight.</li> </ul> <p>Advanced callisthenics includes movements like <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=muscle-ups&rlz=1C5GCCM_en&oq=muscle-ups&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyCQgAEEUYORiABDIGCAEQABgeMgYIAhAAGB4yBggDEAAYHjIGCAQQABgeMgYIBRAAGB4yBggGEAAYHjIGCAcQABgeMgYICBAAGB4yBggJEAAYHtIBBzkzOWowajmoAgCwAgE&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:e41f29e0,vid:1fQdBZfIuIY,st:0">muscle-ups</a> (where you pull yourself above a bar) and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFgk7ysG2fY">flagpole holds</a> (where you hold yourself perpendicular to a pole).</p> <p>In callisthenics, you often do a lot of repetitions (or “reps”) of these sorts of moves, which is what can make it a hybrid strength and cardio workout. In the gym, by contrast, many people take the approach of “<a href="https://theconversation.com/lift-heavy-or-smaller-weights-with-high-reps-it-all-depends-on-your-goal-190902">lifting heavy</a>” but doing fewer reps to build serious strength.</p> <p>Traditionally, callisthenics was more of a muscle sculpting, strength-based work out. It is reportedly based on techniques used by <a href="https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0757qbx/how-ancient-greeks-trained-for-war">ancient Greek</a> soldiers.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.oed.com/dictionary/callisthenic_adj?tab=factsheet#10451225">Oxford Dictionary</a> says the term callisthenics – which is said to be based on the Greek word κάλλος or <em>kállos</em> (meaning beauty) and σθένος or <em>sthenos</em> (meaning strength) – first started showing up in popular discourse the early 1800s.</p> <p>Callisthenics is often associated with high intensity interval training (HIIT) routines, where jumping, skipping or burpees are combined with bodyweight strength-building exercises such as push ups and body weight squats (often for many reps).</p> <p>Callisthenics exercises draw on your natural movement; when children climb on monkey bars and jump between pieces of play equipment, they’re basically doing callisthenics.</p> <h2>What are the benefits of callisthenics?</h2> <p>It all depends on how you do callisthenics; what you put in will dictate what you get out.</p> <p>When exercise programs combine resistance training (such as lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises) and aerobic exercise, the result is better health and a reduced likelihood of death <a href="https://academic.oup.com/eurjpc/article-abstract/26/15/1647/5925845#google_vignette">from a variety of different causes</a>.</p> <p>Callisthenics provide a low cost, time efficient way of exercising this way.</p> <p>With improvements in body composition, muscular strength, and <a href="https://content.iospress.com/articles/isokinetics-and-exercise-science/ies170001">posture</a>, it’s easy to see why it’s become a popular way to train.</p> <p>Research has also shown callisthenics is <a href="https://content.iospress.com/articles/physiotherapy-practice-and-research/ppr220688">better</a> at reducing body fat and controlling blood sugar for people with diabetes when compared to pilates.</p> <p>Research has also shown doing callisthenics can reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ali-Erdem-Cigerci/publication/342339065_The_Effect_of_Calisthenics_Exercises_on_Body_Composition_in_Soccer_Players/links/5eee7aff299bf1faac68c131/The-Effect-of-Calisthenics-Exercises-on-Body-Composition-in-Soccer-Players.pdf">in soccer players</a>, although this research does not compare the benefits between different exercise program types.</p> <p>That means we don’t know if callisthenics is better than other traditional forms of exercise – just that it does more than nothing.</p> <h2>What are the potential drawbacks?</h2> <p>With callisthenics, it can be hard to progress past a certain point. If your goal is to get really big muscles, it may be hard to get there with callisthenics alone. It would likely be simpler for most people to <a href="https://theconversation.com/lift-heavy-or-smaller-weights-with-high-reps-it-all-depends-on-your-goal-190902">gain muscle in a gym</a> using traditional methods such as machine and free weights with a combination of various sets and reps.</p> <p>If you want to progress in the gym, you can increase your dumbbells by small increments, such as 1kg. In callisthenics, however, you may find the jump from one exercise to the next too big to achieve. You risk a plateau in your training without some challenging work-arounds.</p> <p>Another advantage of traditional strength training with bands, machines, or free weights is that it also increases flexibility and range of motion.</p> <p>However, 2023 <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-022-01804-x">research</a> found “no significant range of motion improvement with resistance training using only body mass.” So, given its focus on bodyweight exercises, it seems unlikely callisthenics alone would significantly improve your flexibility and range of motion.</p> <p>Unfortunately, there is no long-term research examining the benefits of callisthenics in direct comparison to traditional aerobic training or resistance training.</p> <h2>Is callisthenics for me?</h2> <p>Well, that depends on your goal.</p> <p>If you want to get really strong, <a href="https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/Fulltext/2017/12000/Strength_and_Hypertrophy_Adaptations_Between_Low_.31.aspx?casa_token=77cmEPgUQr0AAAAA:MchrZRbKBGLl5WCJbqYN5X06rkBHReifOetdXfzJiBg22P62ZnZl6m8OZKov8975QRAjTbYK0Gf2ivA62W0NiAA">lift heavy</a>.</p> <p>If you want to increase your <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/wk/jsc/2022/00000036/00000002/art00012">muscle mass</a>, try lifting near to the point of “failure”. That means lifting a weight to the point where you feel that you are close to fatigue, or close to the point that you may need to stop. The key here is that you don’t have to get to the point of failure to achieve muscle growth – but you do have to put in sufficient effort.</p> <p>If you want to get lean, focus first on nutrition, and then understand that either <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/obr.12536">cardio</a>, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-021-01562-2?fbclid=IwAR2NiI1tcKLIi0f0MLBlafT-hcHbObBvIrl6Sb5gBcSDImsmpEplSuJpRww">lifting</a> or both can help.</p> <p>What if you’re time poor, or don’t have a gym membership? Well, callisthenics exercises offer some of the cardio benefits of a run, and some of the muscular benefits of a lifting session, all tied up in one neat package.</p> <p>It can be a great holiday workout at a local park or playground, on public outdoor exercise equipment, or even on the deck of a holiday rental.</p> <p>But, as with all exercise, there are potential benefits and limitations of callisthenics.</p> <p>Callisthenics has its place, but, for most, it’s likely best used as just one part of a well-rounded training routine.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/246326/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mandy-hagstrom-1180806"><em>Mandy Hagstrom</em></a><em>, Senior Lecturer, Exercise Physiology. School of Health Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-keogh-129041">Justin Keogh</a>, Associate Dean of Research, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-callisthenics-and-how-does-it-compare-to-running-or-lifting-weights-246326">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Body

Beloved Man About the House actor passes away

<p>English actor Brian Murphy best known for his role as George Roper in <em>Man About the House </em>and its spinoff series <em>George and Mildred</em> has died aged 92. </p> <p>The star's agent confirmed he died on Sunday at his home in Kent, with his wife and actress, Linda Regan, by his side. </p> <p>"It is with the greatest of sadness that we have to announce the death of our client actor Brian Murphy," the actor's agent, Thomas Bowington, said in a statement to <em>Deadline</em>. </p> <p>"It is almost impossible to describe the depth of his talent and humanity. A truly joyful and profoundly good hearted man."</p> <p>Regan has since paid tribute to the actor, who she was married to for over 30 years, with an emotional message. </p> <p>"My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart," she wrote to X, alongside a photo of them kissing. </p> <p>"I will love you forever darling, and all your wishes will be carried out as you wanted. My soulmate," she continued in a follow-up tweet.</p> <p>"I know we will meet again, until then I'll hold on to the love we shared for 35 years."</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">I will love you forever darling, and all your wishes will be carried out as you wanted. My soulmate. I know we will meet again, until then I’ll hold on to the love we shared for 35 years <a href="https://t.co/i8nNIkZYTc">https://t.co/i8nNIkZYTc</a></p> <p>— Linda Regan (@Linda_Regan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Linda_Regan/status/1886769269150560670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p><em>'Allo 'Allo! </em>star Vicki Michelle also paid tribute to the actor, saying she was "so so sad" to hear of his death. </p> <p>"Great actor and Gorgeous friend, always fun. My heart goes out to Linda and family. Such a Wonderful couple."</p> <p>Murphy started out acting in theatre and tv in the '60s before being cast in the sitcom, <em>Man About the House</em>, in 1973. </p> <p>He rose to fame shortly after, starring alongside Richard O'Sullivan, Paula Wilcox and Sally Thomsett in the sitcom which ran for six seasons. </p> <p>Murphy continued playing his character George in the spinoff series, <em>George and Mildred</em>, which ran for five seasons. </p> <p>He was also in films including <em>The Booze Cruise, Sparrows Can't Sing</em> and T<em>he Boy Friend</em>.</p> <p><em>Image: Paul Grover/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

Sixties pop icon passes away aged 78

<p>British pop icon Marianne Faithfull has died at the age of 78, with the BBC confirming the news by citing a statement from her spokesperson. </p> <p>“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the singer, songwriter and actress Marianne Faithfull,” the statement read. </p> <p>“Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family. She will be dearly missed.”</p> <p>Faithfull was best known for her debut single <em>As Tears Go By</em> which reached the UK top 10 in 1964. </p> <p>She was also famously the girlfriend of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger in the 60s, becoming a muse for the rock star, inspiring songs such as <em>Wild Horses </em>and <em>You Can't Always Get What You Want</em>.</p> <p>Tributes have poured in for the singer, with Jagger describing her as "a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress," saying he was "so saddened" by the loss. </p> <p>His Rolling Stones bandmate Keith Richards shared that he was "so sad" following her death and that he "will miss her". </p> <p>Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood posted an old picture of him, Faithfull and Richards in a recording studio with the caption "Farewell dear Marianne". </p> <p>He then shared a more recent photo of the pair with the caption: "Marianne will be dearly missed. Bless her xx".</p> <p>Throughout her life, the singer had suffered multiple health problems, including bulimia, breast cancer and emphysema caused by decades of smoking.</p> <p>After a period of drug addiction and homelessness in the early 1970s, Faithfull resurrected her career with the critically acclaimed album Broken English in 1979. She also wrote three autobiographies and had a film acting career. </p> <p>Her most recent comeback was in 2020, and despite falling into a coma and being hospitalised for three weeks after catching Covid, she recovered. </p> <p>In March 2022, the singer moved to Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors and other professional performers in London. </p> <p>Faithfull is survived by her son, Nicholas Dunbar, who she shares with ex-husband and artist John Dunbar. </p> <p><em>Image: Bill Francis/Kobal/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

"It doesn't go away": Former NSW premier reflects on Lindt siege

<p>Former NSW premier Mike Baird has reflected on the Lindt cafe siege that left two hostages dead in December 2014, revealing his struggle with post-traumatic stress. </p> <p>Baird, who was the state premier at the time of the attack, said it was his mother - who is a psychologist - who first noticed his signs of PTSD after he was tasked with coordinating a response to the siege. </p> <p>"I ignored it and there was other things to get on with and be busy about. But I should have listened," Baird told <em><a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/60-minutes/mike-baird-former-nsw-premier-mental-health-struggle-10-years-after-lindt-cafe-siege/e5376455-411a-4b25-b71d-526eb86f7995" target="_blank" rel="noopener">60 Minutes</a></em>. </p> <p>Reflecting on the terrifying day, he said, "Everyone just wanted them out. And you know, for it not to happen, there's a deep grief in that. And I think the impact is felt by everyone."</p> <p>"To have that loss of Tori and Katrina, I'll never lose that," Baird said, referring to the two hostages who were tragically killed during the siege.</p> <p>"It's just impossible not to feel guilt."</p> <p>Baird admitted he struggled to validate his own mental struggles, saying it feels like a very small part of the impact the siege had on Australians, including the enormous pain felt by the families of cafe manager Tori Johnson and barrister Katrina Dawson who lost their lives. </p> <p>"In my mind there's a sense of, 'I shouldn't be impacted that way'," Baird said. "I was just there as an observer and trying to coordinate a response." </p> <p>Several hostages who survived the terrifying ordeal, including Louisa Hope, told 60 Minutes that the memories will never leave them.</p> <p>"For me personally it does not go away, but it is the thing that pushes me to continue to find the good or to find a good out of that awful situation," she said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: 60 Minutes</em></p>

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